How to Succeed in Healthcare School as a First-Generation Student

Key Insights:

• Deciding to pursue a degree in healthcare as a first-generation student can be both exciting and scary. There are a few actions you can take to help contribute to your success academically.
• Believe in yourself and remember why a degree is important to you. This can help you keep going on tough days. Also, take advantage of your school's student services and build your network to help provide additional support.
• Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) learners enrolled in our healthcare programs have access to a variety of student services, each designed to help propel you forward in your education and career.

Degree programs in healthcare can provide the knowledge and skills needed for your desired role. They may also provide wage and employment benefits, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that people aged 25 and over who have degrees tend to have a higher median wage and lower unemployment rate than individuals without this level of education.¹

But if you're a first-generation student, the idea of pursuing your degree may be scary. You might struggle to understand higher education systems, for instance, be concerned about how you'll pay for school, or lack support from family and friends. At Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA), we applaud you for wanting to take a step toward pursuing a career in healthcare, despite the challenges you might face — and we're here to help.

7 Tips to Help You Succeed as a First-Generation Student

There are several things you can do to help make the educational process less anxiety-provoking.

#1: Know that you aren't alone

If your parents never went to college or earned a degree, deciding to take this path can make you feel as if you're walking it alone. But you're not. More than half of all undergrads in the U.S. (8.2 million, or 54%) are first-gen students.² So, you're likely to have many people in similar situations in your healthcare courses.

#2: Believe in yourself

First-generation students often possess strengths that can contribute to their success in both school and life: resilience, resourcefulness, and motivation.³ Remember this when you're doubting your abilities. Use your strengths to help you push toward your career goals.

#3: Remember what getting an education means to you

Picture what your life would look like if you earned a degree in healthcare. How would it be different, or better than it is now? How could getting an education impact future generations in your family? Use this vision to motivate you when times get tough.

#4: Research options for paying for school

First-generation students can face unique financial circumstances, including taking on extra jobs that can reduce study time.⁴ Work with your healthcare school to help understand the financial aid resources that may be available to you, if you qualify. The Federal Student Aid website also provides information on types of financial aid that could help pay for college or career school.

#5: Check out your school's student services

If you experience issues while working toward your healthcare degree, you want to know how your school can help. For instance, learners at UMA have access to a variety of student services designed to help support their academic journeys. Whether you have questions about an assignment, aren't sure which healthcare degree to pursue, or need guidance toward potential resources, our team members are here to assist.

#6: Build your network

Many first-generation students indicate that building a social network helps support their long-term success.⁵ Connect with other students to talk about your experiences or brainstorm ideas. Reach out to professionals in your field for advice, to learn about job opportunities, or to ask if they would be willing to mentor you. Work to build relationships with people who can motivate and inspire you to do your best.

#7: Ask for help when you need it

Concern about being perceived as inadequate can prevent some first-generation students from asking for academic help.⁶ Here's what it's important to know: research has found that getting help is a practical way for students to deal with school problems — and almost all students require some help.⁷ You don't have to struggle through school alone. Academic support services are available at UMA.

Helpful Resources for First-Generation Students

Several organizations offer resources that can be helpful for first-generation students. They include:

• America Needs You: Read student stories, learn more about financial aid and additional resources, or enroll in a virtual program (FirstGenU) designed to help first-generation students develop skills and confidence in the professional world.
• CareerSpring: Join this organization's no-cost Career Platform to gain access to career-based tools and resources, job search skill development resources, and a network of professionals that can offer career advice and guidance.
• FirstGen Forward: Learn more student success tips, watch webinars that provide academic strategies and practical applications, or look for online and in-person professional development opportunities.
• Rise First: Search the directory to find programs and tools designed for first-generation students, look at the calendar for conferences and events you might want to attend, or use the "Success Roadmap" to help you navigate your academic journey.
• I'm First!: Watch video testimonials from other first-gen students or read blogs that showcase the experiences of others in similar situations.
• TED Talks: If you feel inspired by TED Talks, watch ones about first-generation students, such as the videos below.

UMA Offers Academic and Career Support

UMA's philosophy is that no student should walk alone. During your journey to your degree, you have access to our Student Services, which allows you to connect with team members who specialize in admissions, student finance, learner, and academic services.

UMA grads also have access to our Career Services. Advisors can help you prepare for your job search, assist with that search, or potentially connect you with one of our employer partners. You also gain access to ConnectUMA, where you can network with other school alumni.

If you have questions, we can help you get the answers. Contact us to learn more about the support we offer or to discuss your healthcare education options.

FAQs

• What is a first-generation student? The term "first-generation student" is generally used to refer to students whose parents or caregivers did not attend college and/or who took college courses but did not earn a degree.
• What are some challenges I might face as a first-generation student? A Pell Institute study found that the top challenges for first-generation students include financial hardships, mental health, and biases related to this status.⁸ If you're worried about the challenges you may face as a first-generation student, or you're currently facing challenges while pursuing a degree, let us know. Our caring and compassionate team members can provide guidance toward potential resources.
• How can Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) help first-generation students? UMA offers academic and career services designed to provide the guidance and support that can help you in your courses and after graduation. Whether you are struggling with an assignment, have questions about a particular program, or want assistance with your job search, our team members are here to help.